Common Cold
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Montgomery Pediatrics, Inc.
Pediatrics located in Cincinnati, OH
The common cold may be part of childhood, but that doesn’t mean the experience isn’t uncomfortable and disruptive for many kids. For parents in Cincinnati, Ohio, who are looking for help with common cold symptoms, the care available at Montgomery Pediatrics is a welcome relief. Call the office to request an appointment today.
Common Cold Q & A
What is the common cold?
The common cold is a viral infection in the upper portion of your child’s respiratory tract. It’s common among both children and adults, but kids often come down with colds far more frequently.
The common cold is contagious, and kids spend a great deal of time in the company of other kids, not many of whom practice outstanding hand washing and other forms of hygiene.
Most colds are caused by a type of rhinovirus. Those viruses travel in invisible droplets that can be airborne or present on everyday items like toys, books, or furniture. Once a child comes into contact with the virus it can invade the tissues that line their nose and throat.
What are the symptoms of the common cold?
The common cold is usually harmless. The symptoms it brings, however, can feel anything but harmless. For many kids, the common cold brings a week or more of discomfort. Some symptoms of the common cold include:
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Low-grade fever
- Congestion
- Sneezing
- Body aches or headache
- Cough
- Sore throat
One of the worst symptoms of the common cold is called malaise. This is the general feeling of being unwell, and it can permeate every waking minute as your body fights off the infection.
What can be done to treat the common cold?
There is no cure for the common cold, but there are supportive care techniques that can help relieve symptoms and make your child more comfortable.
A wide variety of over-the-counter medications are marketed to parents looking for relief for their children. It can be hard to know which options to select and depending on your child’s age and/or underlying medical conditions if they are safe to use.
Bringing your child to Montgomery Pediatrics offers peace of mind. To begin, your child’s doctor can determine if your child’s symptoms are due to a common cold or another medical issue. Your child will also be evaluated for complications of the common cold including ear infections and lower respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia.
Your pediatrician can create a customized treatment plan to relieve your child’s symptoms. If medications are appropriate you will be counseled on the dosage that’s safe for their age and
